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A Fistful of Honey

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Award-winning book that recently earned acclaim from the prestigious Next Generation Indie Book Awards, IPPY Awards and National Indie Excellence Awards! Money. Love. Family. When it all falls away and she’s left with nothing, one unlikely woman must save herself so that she can save humanity. When Alena Ford is exiled from the whitewashed Upper East Side paradise she hid behind and forced to face both the racial injustice—and her painful past—that she pretended to forget, chaos ensues. A desperate move to a gritty section of Brooklyn sets off an adventure she never imagined. She befriends her eccentric new neighbor Gloria, and the woman’s stunning amethyst necklace and Black Madonna painting draw her into a world of ancient secrets, dark forces, and powerful magic. Alena is descended from an ancient order called The Bridgers, chosen to save humanity from the origin of evil, the Shetani. To succeed, Alena must first battle the demons of her past; if she loses, the fate of the world is at stake. If Alena hopes to survive a final showdown between good and evil, she will need to awaken gifts bestowed to her lifetimes ago and heed the wisdom of the Beings of Light—but first she must make it through her initiation alive. “Once you start A Fistful of Honey, you won’t want to put it down. A must read.” Kenya Kirkman, BlackGirlNerds.com “This book is a battle cry of our times, addressing black women's divinity, healing, and elevation and declaring that they not only matter--they are key to humanity's survival.” Michelby Whitehead, MadameNoire.com “Incredible! Touches on everything from Black Lives Matter to mental health, spirituality & mysticism.” Daria Fennel, Uptown Magazine “Riveting and engaging. An epic, spellbinding tale” -Debrena Jackson Gandy, New York Times bestselling author of Sacred Pampering An African-American Woman's Guide to Self-care “A brilliant masterpiece. I devoured it from cover to cover.”- Valerie Robinson, Unapologetically Us Magazine

290 pages, Kindle Edition

First published January 1, 2017

125 people are currently reading
453 people want to read

About the author

Malena Crawford

2 books18 followers

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5 stars
91 (40%)
4 stars
47 (21%)
3 stars
46 (20%)
2 stars
23 (10%)
1 star
16 (7%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 55 reviews
Profile Image for Melody.
293 reviews91 followers
December 13, 2017
I quit at Chapter 7 cause I think that by the time you reach 50 pages there should be a plot in motion. 50 pages in and...

1. The author is still piling on pity for our heroine. Crawford has given us a dozen really good reasons to be sympathetic towards her protagonist in the first 30 pages. She is EASY to sympathize with. We get it, alright? We should feel sorry for her! Move on with the story!

2. The race and class themes could not be more heavy handed. The ghetto girl who gets beat on by her man, is a single mom, and her nickname is Tacky. In one scene she is drinking a grape soda and eating chips with a pack of cigarettes in her lap. All of this in one sentence after (again) Crawford has already established the ghetto girl as an intriguing, kind and gentle human being. Why pile on more stereotypes? There's some snide lines about hoteps and hustlers and broad generalizations about the kind of black folks that live in the hood. It's not as gracefully written as she wants it to be which makes it hard for me to believe poor black people are going to be handled with sensitivity and nuance as the book progresses.

3. Our heroine is one of those self-hating black women and I can't get down with that. 50 pages in and I can already tell her awakening is gonna be a slow burn and I just can't subject myself to that when there are so many great books about black women waiting to be read.

4. THERE IS ALMOST NO MAGIC 50 PAGES IN. When is the mysticism and fantasy and time traveling coming? I'm tired of waiting. The blurb compares this to Kindred and I can't recall feeling bored and like I was still waiting for the story to start 7 chapters into Kindred. What really irks me is that by page 50, the plot is set up. I can assume the black Madonna painting she's mysteriously drawn to and the eccentric old black lady are gonna open that door into the spiritual world, we've met the ex-husband, the possible new lover, her kid - what more information do we need to get this show on the road???

5. These villains and the save the world plot that's also mentioned in the blurb are NOWHERE IN SIGHT. 7 chapters in. For the aforementioned reason. That's ridiculous to me.

I wanted to like this. Gorgeous cover, very intriguing set-up but I don't have the patience. The rising action and the pacing on this are all wrong so very early into it I'm not gonna force myself to finish.
Profile Image for Jenn.
166 reviews32 followers
August 8, 2017
I really wanted to like this book, but I didn't. Structurally, I felt like it was all over the place. It was a third person narrator from Alena's perspective most of the time, but then it would shift, and not in a way that made sense for the story. The passage of time was hard to get a hold of as well. I honestly don't know how long of a time period the book was supposed to take place. I felt characters were introduced and reintroduced poorly and predictably. The book was a lot of telling and no showing.
I didn't like Alena. I have no problem with unlikeable characters, but she was supposed to be likeable. Things just happened to her, things were explained to her and then she would "understand," but she would later say something that proved she didn't really understand the message at all.
I really didn't like the commentary about sexual abusers, rapists, and murderers just needing to be freed from dark demons. It invalidates so much of the complexity and pain those issues cause and made forgiveness seem like it was easy, and necessary, because these people aren't bad people, they're just possessed. Similarly, mental illness being due to demonic possession is dangerous and, again, simplifies a complex issue.
I also thought this story was too obvious and heavy handed with it's messages. I read that the author has created her own movement around black womanhood and divinity, and this felt like marketing material for that.
Again, I really wanted to like this book, which is why I think I'm even bothering to write this review, but I just couldn't. For Black women sci-fi authors, I'd recommend Octavia Butler (obviously) and NK Jemisin instead.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Colette M. Cummings.
7 reviews
August 6, 2017
I remembered that I am divine!

I am so glad I picked this book. The main character. Galena helped me to remember that I am the child of the most high created in the image of. God. I have the power within to fight off those who seek to keep me from fulfilling my destiny. This book is just the reminder I need at this moment in my life.
This is a must read, especially for black women. Do yourself a huge favor and get this book. You will be taken on a journey of self discovery right along with the main characters. It is arise worth taking.
Profile Image for Yvette P Carter.
212 reviews1 follower
March 22, 2017
A powerful adaptation!

From the first page I was drawn into this story. A mixture of Devine interactions with old world concepts, spirits, and current day tragedy. Melena's writing propelled me back to my favorite author who wrote openly of the same concepts, ancestor, Octavia Butler. I applaud you Melena for your strength in writing with such powerful and visual perception. I look forward to the sequel.
Profile Image for Jason Duby.
41 reviews
November 30, 2017
Alena Ford is a woman with demons. When we meet her she is going through another difficult time in a lifetime of challenges and pain. Her husband is leaving her for another woman, she has no resources of her own, and both she and her daughter are being evicted from their home. She is scrambling for answers and close to despair...but this gauntlet of challenges may turn out to be Alena's chance to embrace a destiny that can not only transform her but also change the world...provided she can survive her demons, which turn out to be not so metaphorical.

Let me start out by saying that this book is a really enjoyable read. As a person who is about as far from the main character as can be, I found Alena's journey moving and inspirational. The supernatural elements involved in the book are ones not dealt with often in the fiction I read, and that difference is refreshing. The main characters are fleshed out well, and feel real...which I think is needed in writing that has mystical and supernatural elements. I also felt like I was given enough story that most of the book did not feel rushed.

Some of the transitions were a little rougher than others, and the ending felt a little abrupt, even though I think it stopped at the right moment. I did get left with a few questions about what had happened with an important character...something happened with the guide Gloria that I thought needed some explaining. Again though,overall this book was well done. While a reader might not agree with everything presented, Malena Crawford has a distinct voice that should be heard and considered.

independent reviewer for Romance Authors That Rock
Profile Image for Marbea Logan.
1,310 reviews17 followers
October 29, 2018
This book is phenomenal,powerful,evolutionary, and worthy of every page written. I can't claimed to be a religious woman, I am more spiritual. I do believe all religions have its positive and negative purposes, but there's only one true divine creator. This booked touched on many concepts, and preconceived notions about black people and the views of the world towards themselves. Everything about this book had big facts and big fiction, but yet it tied together with so much profound consciousness and righteousness of the self-worth of the black and human race that it all was just astounding and empowering. And as a black woman, mother and child of my ancient ancestors I felt this story on a supreme level. I don't appreciate this ending and a possible sequel, because this story could've been a full length completed story with just a few more chapters. I have placed in this review my favorite passage from the book:

"You are the revolution. Your humanity has been
tested so that
you can model for the world what humanity is supposed
to look like.
To complete this, the Black race must take full
responsibility of its
divine power, whether you choose to wield it or not. Love
yourselves
completely, be obedient to the light, and drop the veil of
forgetfulness
-178-
MALENA CRAWFORD
from your minds. By sacred contract, you agreed to be
the pioneers
of humanity. Once again, you must do this despite the
hateful
thoughts or actions of any other.”

POWER TO THE PEOPLE!!
Profile Image for Nana Prah.
Author 24 books272 followers
May 9, 2018
A wonderful story that broke my heart more than once while reading it. Alena’s journey to finding her true self was a tortuous experience. The story shows Alena at her lowest point and sheds light on how she got there, but the most extraordinary aspect of the book was how she got out of the troubles she’d been thrust into. The novel portrays her self-doubts but also her strength and courage as she struggles to become more than who she is.
The journey she takes isn’t only on the human realm, but the spiritual one as well. Not all of the aspects Ms. Crawford presented in the story resonated with me, but I enjoyed reading about spirituality from a diversified, perspective.
There were points in the book where I thought the author was talking directly to me. Teaching me a lesson through Alena’s life. I loved these moments. At the same time I didn’t agree with the concept of having a favored people- perhaps it’s because I’ve had a problem with it before reading this story. I was slightly annoyed with the cliffhanger she presented, but not enough to deter me from loving the story.
This was a wonderful book which I would highly recommend.
221 reviews1 follower
March 30, 2020
I really wanted to like this book. I did truly enjoy the reimagining of sacred characters as black women and the reinterpretation of the Black race’s burden in today’s time. I also liked the exploration of what divine femininity means to Black women, especially in a world that tries to tell us we’re too loud, too dark, and too aggressive to be feminine.

However, this plot dragged on. It felt like very little movement and I didn’t feel like the main character evolved organically. I skimmed over the final battle and was actually relieved when the book ended.

This is a more “embrace the message, not the messenger” story. I think there is something to be said about the message behind self love and femininity, but through this plot? I’m not so sure.

I appreciate what the author was trying to do here, though.
Profile Image for J.N. Lewis.
35 reviews4 followers
November 14, 2017
This book was not what I expected. I enjoyed it more than I thought I would. It was an emotional and interesting read for me, as I truly enjoyed various elements of this story.

I do think that there was a lot going on throughout the book. The plot of forgiveness and self-love were more than enough to have a solid story. And while I LOVED the supernatural elements coming together, I found myself getting a little bored with the constant explanations and long paragraphs of information. Not to say that it was bad, it was just a bit overwhelming.

Other than that, I adored the underlying theme of empowerment and self-love. It was beautiful and refreshing. I'm definitely looking forward to the next book.
Profile Image for Osas Aiyankhe.
12 reviews
September 30, 2017
Phenomenal! Catches you by surprise!
A Fistful of Honey is a story that sneaks up on you and you don’t want to let it go. It starts out in modern NYC with a black woman on the brink of unraveling. Then it gets really good, really fast. This is as much of an adventure as it is a deep message to HEAL THIS DAMN WORLD and ladies STAND UP! Get in formation, in our rightful places as Queens and Divine beings that we are. As you get to know Alena and see her change, and grow attached to the other characters Gloria and Takeah, you begin to redefine what is fantasy and what is truth, and reimagine what it would look like if we stood in the power that we have. I’m very glad that I found this book. Well done!
Profile Image for Tkeyah.
20 reviews4 followers
June 1, 2017
Wow.

I see myself in alena. There are times where she is questioning everything. Wondering why she has to go through so much pain. There are times where she is angry with God! And that's what like about this character. She's normal, she go through things, she has darkness around her but when you believe in the light, when you focus on the light, when you ARE the light the darkness can't win anymore. Thank you for such a great book for all the blackness you provided for us. So many things I highlighted in here because it really moved me. Thank you for putting Oshun in here, for the black Madonna, for Isis, and etc. Amazing read.
Profile Image for Tayla.
279 reviews6 followers
July 20, 2017
4.5 stars.

Great read, but too short - the ending felt rushed (hence, I'm assuming, the "The End... for now.") This would be a good beginning to a series, if that is Ms. Crawford's intention.

That said, I could relate to Alena and I could feel her pain, especially as it related to Maya. As mothers, we would go to hell and back for our children, and Alena came very close.

I would be curious to see if Ms. Crawford plans to write another novel
Profile Image for Roshida.
25 reviews3 followers
September 23, 2017
What a great read!!

Alena, broken, lied to felt her life had no meaning other than mother to Maya. Coming from a broken home, enduring atrocities as a child, she fled home when the opportunity arose. In doing this she led an untrue life. Marriage broken, deceit, it had all become malevolent and unholy!
Having to leave a lifestyle she'd become accustomed to Alena and Maya move to what was looked upon as an unsafe neighborhood.
Here is where she meets Gloria, and things from Alena's past come to life spiritually, mentally and physically.
Here is when a battle is forged, but who, or what wins?
Profile Image for David.
18 reviews1 follower
July 21, 2017
This book was one of the most unique and transformative novels I have ever read. Any 1 or 2 star reviews are clearly from hateful people who probably did not even read this beautiful story. Alena Ford is the every woman, she is ME even though I’m not a black woman. I cried with her. I cheered for her. I need a Gloria (AND a Michael) in my life!! WELL DONE Ms. Crawford, well done! I will be looking for this story on the big screen or at the very least on Oprah’s Network. I hope there is a sequel coming SOON!!!
7 reviews
August 15, 2017
This is very clearly a cathartic exercise for the author and for that one can't dismiss the value it holds for her and the readers who identify with the black Israelite/Pan Africanism movements to which it preaches. But from an objective perspective as a piece of literature it's poorly written and
Poorly paced. The characters are all cliches and all unlikable. The notion that a child molestar is just a victim of demons is beyond disturbing Pages and pages of unnecessary dialogue don't help. The worst book I've read in a long time
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Abode.
22 reviews2 followers
July 24, 2017
This is the first Malena Crawford novel I have read. It was an absolutely stunning read with an amazing & emotional storyline.

A Fistful of Honey took me on a divine and intriguing journey about a black woman who learns to love herself.

The book got me flipping till the end and I love the scriptures from the bible giving it a christian feel. I am sure many women will find themselves in Alena and begin to look at situations from a different perspective. This is a good read. Highly recommended.
Profile Image for Tasha Millner.
462 reviews4 followers
July 30, 2017
Great read

Read this book with an open mind to fully understand the realm in which the author is writing from. There is an underlying message that can be taken away from the book, passages upon passages of messages of strength, growth and knowledge is given throughout the book. The author has given so much more than what is presented. Know that A Fistful of Honey will be read again and again by me.
Profile Image for Seymone.
321 reviews37 followers
August 3, 2017
Who would have thought? A book that I found on Amazon for .99 cents would have taught me so much.

A Fistful of Honey is a book of parables. We follow Alena Ford on her journey of finding her authentic self and what a journey it is. This book is jam packed with timeless truths. There are many gems in this book that I hope to keep, when I might lose my way on my own journey.

I would recommend this one! I give it 4.5 stars.
14 reviews
January 15, 2018
Uplifting, a bright light of Truth!!

I choose to give it 5 stars because the book is uplifting. In this world today it would answer so may questions. I have felt like the people in this book. The use of the Bible as a guide for us to understand the author's points was great. In enjoyed this book and will be following this author. I feel we need more books of this type. It's a beacon of light that we all need today!
Profile Image for Sandi Leska.
92 reviews
July 19, 2020
Greatly enjoyed three quarters of this book. I could very much relate to the characters. So often we use self assessments to create assumptions for others actions. Enjoyed the heroine accepting value in negative experiences and learning forgiveness .
It did a great job creating a visible dramatization of ideologies with personal experiences but sort of loss strength in the end when trying to go big. Would have liked more personal development shared on Mike.
Profile Image for Janice Anderson.
108 reviews
July 30, 2017
A New Heaven And Earth

This was an amazingly inspirational written fictional historical story filled with mystery and coming into one's self worth. I have to admit that it was also a little hard to read at first; however I pushed forward. Looking forward to reading the sequel. Kudos Marlena Crawford.
Profile Image for Elan Wallace.
45 reviews1 follower
August 12, 2017
Ready for part two...

Hurt, pain, and dispare....life at its worst....coming to know God.....change of life.....finding true love....defeating evil. This book will have you feeling the hurt....maybe even tears, then turnaround and empower you to live and lead a better life. Love it!
Profile Image for yvette grant.
29 reviews
August 29, 2017
Excellent book of Triumph

I enjoyed the book and the imagery. The editing made it difficult to know which character was speaking. It may be a Kindle glitch. My only concern was how quickly each character accepted these fantastical truths. I would have liked to have spent more time with their psychological and emotional acceptance.
3 reviews
September 9, 2017
Applause! Applause!

I loved this book! I think it is an excellent selection for a book club! The potential for discussion is plentiful. The perspective on spirituality, ancestry, divinity and present day issues left me feeling purposefully powerful! I am anxiously awaiting this author's next book!
76 reviews
October 4, 2017
A Great Read

I chose this rating because the novel touched my soul. There were words and ideas in it that I haven't heard since I was a child. I am a 69 1/2 black woman who has been told so often to forget about my childhood. I cannot believe that this book was written with so much research. Thank you so much. I am looking forward to Part 2.
Profile Image for AJ.
60 reviews1 follower
October 9, 2017
I honestly don't know what to say.

The book itself will leave you speechless. However, I felt like the ending was rushed. I understood where Crawford was trying to take the book, but it's clear she may have felt it would not sell it it were too heavy. But that's what books are for. Anyways, it was pretty good.
Profile Image for J.S. Bell.
Author 5 books6 followers
June 23, 2017
Very good book. Well written and I loved it from start to finish. I love to read mostly spiritual and psychology books and I write mostly fiction novels, so to find an author who can mix all in one is inspiring! Great job!
Profile Image for Ida Earl.
51 reviews1 follower
July 24, 2017
The best book I have read in years

I read this book this morning. It is the best thing I have read in years. And I read a lot! This book is wonderful, healing, insightful. You really must read.
Profile Image for Carol Jackson.
1 review
August 6, 2017
This book was very exciting I felt like I was right there I enjoyed it so well is there a part two I will check out more boos by this author

I rated this book was on point I have recommended this book to some friends who will also read it
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